Solana Labs subsidiary, Solana Mobile, has unveiled the Seeker, its second-generation web3 smartphone set for release in 2025 during Token2049. Emerging from its “Chapter Two” stealth phase, the device has secured over 140,000 pre-orders across 57 countries.
“We needed to make Seeker more accessible, more affordable, and ensure its hardware and software are even more deeply integrated for web3,” said Anatoly Yakovenko, co-founder of Solana and CEO of Solana Labs. The Seeker aims to be the definitive web3 mobile device, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, the Solana Saga.
Key features of the Seeker include the Seed Vault Wallet, a mobile-first crypto wallet integrated with the device’s self-custodial Seed Vault for seamless web3 experiences. Developed exclusively for the Seeker in collaboration with Solflare, it offers double-tap transactions and simplified account management.
The Solana dApp Store 2.0 introduces an updated rewards tracker and improved app discoverability across payments, DeFi, DePIN, NFTs, AI, and gaming. Additionally, the Seeker Genesis Token, a unique, soulbound NFT, unlocks opportunities for rewards, exclusive access, offers, and content within the Solana ecosystem.
Hardware improvements over the previous model include a lighter design, brighter display, enhanced camera capabilities, and extended battery life. Early founder pricing is set at $450 for presale and is available until Sept. 21.
The Seeker follows the Solana Saga, which experienced initial struggles but eventually found success. Early sales of the Saga were underwhelming, with only about 2,500 units sold in the first few months. Issues such as device weight, connectivity problems, software bugs, and limited repair options contributed to its slow uptake.
However, the Saga became a catalyst for meme coin trading on Solana after an airdrop of BONK tokens to phone owners. This unexpected development significantly increased demand, with sales surpassing 150,000 units and the device selling out in the US by Dec. 2023.
The success of the Saga has energized web3 mobile development within the Solana community. Ecosystem teams are building decentralized applications, rewards, and features exclusively for the Seeker ahead of its rollout. The device’s launch is anticipated to drive further adoption of Solana’s mobile technologies.
Amid broader positive market movements, Solana has outperformed other top projects, hitting $140, up 8% in the past 24 hours.
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Source: https://cryptoslate.com/new-solana-phone-branded-seeker-unveiled-with-special-genesis-token/